I apologize to our readers for the long absence. No excuses, I just promise to do better! But today, I want to turn our attention to Kelly Wearstler, American interior designer. She is currently one of the hottest trendsetters in the world, with elite hotel and office projects either completed or in the works. Her designs continue to earn her many accolades: Wearstler was named one of the style leaders in 2010 by Town & Country; honored as one of House Beautiful’s best designers; recognized for her interior design work by Bon Appetit; dubbed one of the design world’s top tastemakers by House & Garden; named one of the elite “Design 100″ by Time Style & Design; and designated as one of the top 25 trendsetters of the year by Modern Bride.
Wearstler’s interiors have a distinctly modern feel with clean lines and a bold crisp color palette. Where she sets herself apart, however, is in her throwback to old Hollywood glamour and style. The New York Times says, “She helped create a new look that some called the return of Hollywood Regency and others simply dubbed Maximalism.” She has said that she is inspired by what she sees in vintage stores. But looking at her lush fabrics and Louis-style chaises, you would never think “fashion on a budget”. She does what all design-savvy amateurs strive to do in their own homes: bring the past into the present without going overboard on kitsch.
Wearstler’s versatility is quite extraordinary. She can turn a 5-star hotel’s outdoor patio into a comfortable adult playground or add just the right pop of color to a luxurious seascape interior. She can throw old-world Roman busts together with abstract wooden centerpieces and create a cohesive room with movement and warmth. She chooses textiles that invite you have a seat and never want to get up. Somehow, Wearstler manages to make a room feel overpoweringly sexy and worthy of refined royalty at the same time. I don’t know how she does it, but I’m so glad she does.
Currently, you can find Wearstler designs for your own home at Bergdorf Goodman (and online). If you are on a budget, you might be better off learning from Wearstler and visiting your local vintage shops. However, if you can see yourself spending $500 for a “Brass Spikey Accessory”, then her line is definitely for you. The items are re-developed each season so there is always something new for you to check out. Happy shopping!
Perhaps as an extra juicy tidbit, Kelly Wearstler (nee Gallagher) was also Playboy’s September 1994 Playmate of the Month. I don’t know if we’ll ever find another successful designer who is just as well known for their design aesthetic as”their sexy curves!”
Carolyn Breit
